Newsroom

By Amyee Carson, Director of Whole Family Services, and Stephanie VanderElzen, Director of Head Start
Mid Michigan Community Action
 
Back-to-school season often brings to mind backpacks, classrooms, new teachers, and children preparing for another year of learning. For families with young children, however, preparing for school begins long before kindergarten.
 
Head Start has understood that for decades.
 
At Mid Michigan Community Action, Head Start includes both Head Start Preschool and Early Head Start. Head Start Preschool provides early education for children ages 3-5 in Clare and Gladwin Counties, while Early Head Start begins even earlier, supporting families during pregnancy and through a child’s first three years in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties.
 
Head Start is about more than a child’s time in a classroom.
 
Children learn and grow within families. What happens at home, the resources available to a family, a caregiver’s goals, a child’s development, and the relationships surrounding a child all play a role in helping that child thrive.
 
That is why Head Start works with the whole family.
 
For children, that can mean learning through play, building relationships, developing communication and social skills, and preparing for the transition to kindergarten.
 
For parents and caregivers, it can mean having someone to turn to with questions about their child’s development, setting goals for their family, connecting with resources, becoming involved in their child’s education, and receiving support as their child’s first and most important teacher.
 
Sometimes the support a family needs has little to do with what is happening in a classroom. A family may be continuing their education, working toward greater financial stability, looking for community resources, or navigating a change at home. Having a trusted team beside them can make a difference.
 
This whole-family approach recognizes something simple but important: helping young children succeed means supporting the families raising them.
 
And while the beginning of a new school year is a natural time to think about preschool, it is not the only time families can reach out. Head Start Preschool continues enrolling throughout the school year as space is available. Children can also become eligible when they turn 3 or 4 during the year. A child who isn't old enough for Head Start Preschool when school begins may become eligible later.
 
School readiness does not suddenly begin when a child starts preschool, either. The foundations are being built from the very beginning, in a baby’s first relationships, a toddler’s exploration of the world, a preschooler’s growing independence, and the support surrounding their family throughout those years.
 
That is the larger promise of Head Start.
 
It is early education. It is family support. It is preparation for kindergarten. And through Early Head Start, that work can begin before a child is even born.
 
Families interested in Early Head Start can learn more online here or call or text 1-877-386-4406.
 
Families interested in Head Start Preschool can learn more online here or call 989-386-8075. If your child isn't eligible yet, you can still contact our team to find out when they may become eligible.
 
Amyee Carson is the Director of Whole Family Services at Mid Michigan Community Action. Stephanie VanderElzen is the Director of Head Start at Mid Michigan Community Action. Mid Michigan Community Action provides Head Start Preschool in Clare and Gladwin Counties and Early Head Start in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties.

[Harrison, MI—] Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) and Clare-Gladwin Regional Education Service District are expanding preschool options for local families with a new Strong Beginnings classroom at Mid Michigan CAA’s Harrison Preschool.

The no-cost classroom will serve eligible 3-year-olds beginning with the 2026–2027 school year. While Mid Michigan CAA already welcomes 3-year-olds through its preschool program, the new classroom will be designed just for children at this important stage of growth.

“Three-year-olds are curious, busy, and ready to explore the world around them,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “Having a classroom created especially for them gives our teachers more ways to meet children where they are, help them feel comfortable at school, and build skills through play. We are excited to welcome more Harrison families and give children another year to learn, grow, and make friends before kindergarten.”

Strong Beginnings is a state-funded preschool program led by the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential. It gives eligible 3-year-olds an added year of play-based learning before they move into a preschool classroom for 4-year-olds and later begin kindergarten.

Children will learn through stories, art, music, movement, hands-on projects, and time with classmates. The program helps children practice communication, early reading skills, problem-solving, managing feelings, and taking part in classroom routines.

The new Harrison classroom will offer a full school day four days each week and will have space for 15 children. Strong Beginnings funding will work together with Head Start funding to support the classroom.

Strong Beginnings also supports caregivers. Families can work with staff, take part in their child’s learning, set goals, and connect with other helpful resources in the community.

Across Michigan, Strong Beginnings is growing from 34 classrooms serving 476 children to about 50 classrooms serving 750 children during the 2026–2027 school year. State evaluation results show that 97% of participating families said their child gained new skills through the program, and 96% said their child loves attending.

For families, another year of no-cost preschool can also provide time to work, attend school, complete job training, or focus on other household goals while their child learns in a safe and caring setting.

The Harrison classroom is part of the Clare and Gladwin Counties Quality Preschool Partnership, which brings local preschool programs together to help families find the option that best meets their needs.

Families interested in Strong Beginnings or other no-cost preschool options can apply at www.claregladwinpreschool.org or call 989-386-8075.
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Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

​Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) invites families to join the 22nd Annual Fun Day in the Park on June 12, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Shamrock Park in Clare. This family-friendly event will feature hands-on activities focused on STEAM—science, technology, engineering, art, and math—through fun, age-appropriate play for young children.

Fun Day in the Park is designed for families who are pregnant and families with young children, but families with older children are welcome, too. Children will have the chance to build, explore, create, and enjoy messy play while learning through simple activities that make STEAM exciting and approachable for little learners.

“Fun Day in the Park is one of our favorite ways to bring families together,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “STEAM activities help young children practice big skills like curiosity, creativity, and problem solving in kid-sized ways while families connect with our staff, meet other local families, and enjoy a fun day in the community.”

In addition to the activities, families can enjoy food, meet Mid Michigan CAA staff, and connect with other families in the community while learning more about early childhood programs and resources available in the area.

“We love creating opportunities where families can relax, have fun, and feel supported,” said Amyee Carson, Whole Family Services Director. “Events like Fun Day in the Park help families build connections while learning about services like Early Head Start, Head Start Preschool, and other community resources that can support them through pregnancy and early childhood.”

For questions or more information, contact Katelynn McKellar at [email protected] or 989-386-0892.

This event is supported by United Way of Clare and Gladwin Counties and by funding from the MiLEAP 35i MiFamily Engagement Centers Grant.

To learn more about Mid Michigan CAA’s early childhood programs:

• Head Start Preschool serves children who will be 3 or 4 by September 1, 2026, in Clare and Gladwin Counties. Apply online at https://www.mmcaa.org/preschool.html or call 989-386-8075.
• Early Head Start serves those who are pregnant and children from birth through age 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. Complete an interest form online at https://www.mmcaa.org/ehs.html or call or text 1-877-386-4406.

​Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

In the News
State of Michigan: Next Round of Literacy Trainings and Family Events Expands Across Michigan Amid Growing Demand for Early Learning Support: Events Planned in Marquette, Big Rapids, Jenison, Scottville, Clare, Metro Detroit and Northeast Michigan, Published April 7, 2026

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to come together as a community and recognize the importance of strong families, supportive environments, and safe childhoods.

At Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA), this work happens every day by helping families access the tools, resources, and support they need to care for their children and build stable, healthy homes.

“When families feel supported, children have a better chance to grow, learn, and thrive,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director. “Programs like Head Start Preschool and Early Head Start create safe, nurturing spaces where children can develop and caregivers can feel confident and connected.”

Mid Michigan CAA offers several programs that support families with young children, including Head Start Preschool, Early Head Start, and WIC (Women, Infants, and Children). These programs provide early learning opportunities, nutrition support, and guidance for caregivers during some of the most important years of a child’s life.

Through these services, families can access:

• Safe, supportive early learning environments
• Healthy food and nutrition guidance
• Developmental screenings and growth tracking
• Support for caregivers, including education and connections to community resources

“Support makes a difference,” said Amyee Carson, Whole Family Services Director. “When caregivers have someone to turn to, it can ease stress and help families feel more confident in meeting their children’s needs. That kind of support strengthens the whole community.”

Child Abuse Prevention Month is a reminder that creating safe and healthy environments for children is something everyone can be part of. Whether it’s offering encouragement, sharing resources, or helping families connect to support, small actions can make a big impact.

Get Connected
 
Mid Michigan Community Action offers programs for families with young children across several counties.

• Early Head Start supports those who are pregnant and children from birth through age 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. Apply at https://www.mmcaa.org/ehs or call or text 1-877-386-4406.
• Head Start Preschool is available for children ages 3 and 4 in Clare and Gladwin Counties. Apply at https://www.mmcaa.org/preschool or call 989-386-8075.
• WIC supports those who are pregnant and families with children from birth through age 5 through the Midland office. Call 989-832-7310, text 989-220-1076, or email [email protected] to get started.

If you’re not sure where to begin, reach out. We’re here to help you find the support that’s right for your family.

Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

In The News
Gladwin County Record & Beaverton Clarion: Recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, Published April 15, 2026

A recent article in the Big Rapids Pioneer highlighted a creative partnership between Artworks of Big Rapids and Mid Michigan Community Action, showcasing artwork made by families in our Early Head Start program as part of Artworks’ exhibit. The collaboration brings together community, art, and early childhood education in a public, welcoming space.

“This special exhibition celebrates the beauty of discovery, creativity, and connection through the lens of nature and early learning. Rooted in the belief that the arts and environment are powerful teachers, this initiative brings together families, educators, and young children to explore the natural world through hands-on artmaking. . . . This exhibition stands as a joyful reminder that when children engage with art and nature, they build the foundations for lifelong learning, imagination, and environmental awareness,” the article notes.

At Mid Michigan Community Action, our Early Head Start program provides support and resources for those who are pregnant and children from birth through age 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. Through projects like this art exhibit, we offer children and families enriching experiences beyond the classroom, building confidence, connection, and community through creative expression.

If you’re interested in learning more about our Early Head Start programs or ways to get involved, visit our Early Head Start page or call or text 1-877-386-4406.

In the News

• Pioneer: Up and Down the River: Nature Through a Child's Eyes, Published November 10, 2025

​​This article celebrates the power of community partnerships and how creative experiences like this support children’s development and build connection between families, educators, and the local arts community.

Celebrating Head Start Awareness Month

This October, Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) celebrates Head Start Awareness Month, recognizing the life-changing impact Head Start Preschool and Early Head Start have on children, families, and the communities they call home.

Head Start Preschool and Early Head Start programs offer more than early learning. They provide family-centered support that helps children grow, encourages parents and caregivers, and connects families with the tools they need to thrive now and into the future.

“We see the difference every day,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “When children have a safe place to learn and grow, when families have the support they need, when we build community together, we’re giving kids the best chance at success. That helps everyone.”

For 60 years, Head Start programs across the country have helped children and families reach their goals. Children who participate in Head Start are more likely to start kindergarten ready to learn and go on to succeed in school and life. Parents and caregivers in our programs are more likely to read with their children, continue their own education, and feel confident supporting their child’s development.

“Early Head Start supports families during some of the most important years of a child’s life,” said Amyee Carson, Whole Family Services Director. “From pregnancy through the toddler years, we walk alongside families, helping them build healthy relationships and strong foundations.”

Each year, we serve over 350 children and their families through Head Start and Early Head Start, and that impact reaches even further when you consider the positive effects for caregivers, schools, and communities.

Mid Michigan CAA is proud to be part of the Clare and Gladwin Counties Quality Preschool Partnership, offering both Head Start and Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) classrooms. These partnerships allow us to serve more children and families in our community.

Build a Brighter Future
Mid Michigan Community Action offers no-cost Early Head Start and Head Start Preschool programs for eligible families.
 
Early Head Start is available for pregnant families and children from birth through age 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. Families can apply online at www.mmcaa.org/ehs or call or text 1-877-386-4406 to get started.

Head Start Preschool is available for children who were 3 or 4 years old by September 1, 2025 in Clare and Gladwin Counties. Families can apply at www.mmcaa.org/preschool or call 989-386-8075 for more information.

Both programs support children's development through play-based learning, healthy meals, developmental screenings, and family-focused services. Caregivers also receive support to pursue their own goals and connect to community resources.

Celebrate with Us
Celebrate Head Start Awareness Month with fun, connection, and early learning! Come meet our staff, explore activities for children, and find out how Head Start and Early Head Start can support your family!

Beaverton Fall Fest is on October 11. We’ll be there in downtown Beaverton from 12–4 PM with crafts, games, and a chance to meet our team. Contact Malinda at 989-418-1032 or [email protected] for more information.

Books and Bubbles is on October 14 from 11 AM–12 PM at Clare City Park and features story time and bubble play for little learners. Contact Jenny at 989-802-1782 or [email protected] for more information.

Crafts, Games, and Autumn Days is on October 21 from 4–6 PM at Clare City Park and offers hands-on activities, fall fun, and friendly conversation. Contact Jenny at 989-802-1782 or [email protected] for more information.

Get Involved
Now more than ever, it’s important to share the positive impact of Head Start. These programs work best when communities come together—local, state, and federal support makes all of this possible.

If you’re a parent, caregiver, or community member, learn more, share your story, or contact your legislators to show your support for early learning.

Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

In the News

• Huron Daily Tribune: Published October 2, 2025
• Midland Daily News: Published October 2, 2025​
• MSN: Published October 2, 2025

​These articles highlighted the importance of Head Start in supporting families and provided strong visibility for our Early Childhood programs during this national recognition month.

Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is now enrolling for Head Start Preschool for the 2025–2026 school year. Children who will be 3 or 4 years old by September 1, 2025 and who live in Clare or Gladwin County may qualify.

Head Start is a free, high-quality preschool program that prepares children for school and beyond by supporting their development academically, socially, and emotionally.

“This year marks 60 years of Head Start, and we are proud to continue that legacy here in Mid Michigan,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Preschool Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “We see every day how powerful early learning can be for our children, their families, and our whole community. It's about more than getting ready for kindergarten—it's about building a foundation for a lifetime of growth and learning.”

Head Start Preschool offers a warm, supportive classroom environment with individualized learning plans, nutritious meals and snacks, family engagement, and connections to additional community resources. The program is designed not only for the child, but for the whole family—working to reduce barriers and build stability that lasts.

Head Start also supports families and local communities in practical ways. This past school year alone, we served over 50,000 meals and snacks to children in our classrooms and purchased more than $23,000 in food from local grocery stores—boosting nutrition and supporting local businesses at the same time. And for parents and caregivers, having access to preschool means more than early learning—it often means the ability to work or go back to school while knowing their child is in a safe, supportive environment.

Through our partnership with the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) and the Clare and Gladwin Counties Quality Preschool Partnership, we’re able to serve even more families and ensure more children in our community have access to quality early learning.

Families can apply today at www.mmcaa.org/preschool or by calling 989-386-8075.

For families who are expecting or have children from birth through age 3 and aren't yet ready for preschool, Mid Michigan CAA also offers Early Head Start. This free program provides support for pregnant individuals, infants, and toddlers and is available in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties.

Apply for Early Head Start online at www.mmcaa.org/ehs or call or text 1-877-386-4406 to learn more.

This year marks 60 years of Head Start’s impact across the country. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or community member, we invite you to celebrate with us by sharing this opportunity with families you know. Early learning is a powerful way to build strong kids, strong families, and strong communities. Discover more about our Early Childhood programs here: www.mmcaa.org/childrenandfamilies.
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Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) recently welcomed Representative Kunse and State Senator Hauck to our Head Start preschool classrooms for a special story time and a firsthand look at early childhood education in action.

The visits took place at our Clare and Farwell sites on April 14th and 21st, where each had the opportunity to read to the children and talk with teachers and staff. These visits offered insight into how Head Start supports children and families through comprehensive early learning and family-focused services.

“It meant so much to have State Senator Hauck and Representative Kunse spend time with our students,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “The children were so excited to have special visitors read to them, and it’s always powerful when leaders in our community take time to see firsthand the joy, growth, and connection happening in our classrooms every day.”

At Mid Michigan Community Action, we’re proud to serve 350 children and their families through our Head Start programs. With over 26 years of experience providing quality early learning, we’ve seen firsthand the long-term benefits—children who attend Head Start are more likely to graduate high school, pursue higher education, and build stability and long-term success.

We also work closely with families, recognizing that parents are their child’s first and most important teachers. Our program helps remove barriers and support caregivers in creating positive, engaging home environments. Research shows that Head Start families are more likely to read together, continue their own education, and be more involved in their child’s learning journey.

Mid Michigan CAA’s Head Start program provides no-cost preschool to eligible children ages 3 through 5, promoting school readiness through individualized learning, nutritious meals, and access to health and developmental services.

For more information about Head Start or other early childhood programs, visit www.mmcaa.org or call 989-386-8075.
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Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is proud to recognize Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) Week, observed from March 16-22, and the essential role CACFP plays in ensuring children receive nutritious meals every day.

Each year, CACFP provides federal funding to facilities including licensed childcare centers, Head Start programs, public and private schools, after-school care programs, and emergency shelters to offer healthy meals and snacks. In Michigan alone, CACFP supports the distribution of more than 6.2 million breakfasts, 7.3 million lunches, 12 million snacks, and 5.4 million suppers annually to children and adults in care.

Mid Michigan CAA is proud to participate in this program, making it possible for our 12 Preschool classrooms in Clare and Gladwin Counties to serve more than 40,000 meals and snacks so far during the 2024-2025 program year. A total of 215 children in our program have received CACFP-funded meals, ensuring they have access to nutritious, balanced meals that support their growth and learning. Through CACFP funding, we purchase fresh, healthy foods from local stores and vendors to provide high-quality meals to the children in our care.

"Proper nutrition is critical for young children’s growth, learning, and overall well-being," said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA. "CACFP makes it possible for us to provide high-quality meals and snacks to the children in our program, ensuring they have the fuel they need to thrive in the classroom."

Preschool Enrollment is Open!
Mid Michigan CAA is currently accepting applications for its Preschool program which serves children from three through five in Clare and Gladwin Counties. Children enrolled in preschool build kindergarten readiness skills, engage in classroom activities, and enjoy nutritious meals and snacks at no cost to eligible families.

Families interested in Preschool can apply online at www.mmcaa.org/preschool or call (989) 386-8075 for more information.
To learn more about all of our early childhood programs, visit www.mmcaa.org/childrenandfamilies or call or text 989-386-3805.

Mid Michigan Community Action is committed to providing children with high-quality education, nutritious meals, and the resources they need to succeed. As we celebrate CACFP Week, we recognize the impact this program has on the children we serve and our ability to continue supporting local families.
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Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

This October Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is celebrating Head Start Awareness Month, recognizing the vital role that both Early Head Start and Preschool Head Start programs play in the development of young children and families. These programs work together to provide critical resources and comprehensive support for children from birth through age 5 and pregnant individuals, ensuring they receive the education, health, and family services needed for a strong start in life.

Early Head Start serves pregnant individuals and children from birth through age 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties, focusing on nurturing infant and toddler development during these critical early years. The program helps parents build strong bonds with their children, supports health and wellness, and offers resources to create a foundation for lifelong learning.

“Early Head Start supports families during some of the most important developmental years of a child’s life,” said Amyee Carson, Early Head Start & WIC Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “We partner with parents to support pregnancies and provide the guidance and resources needed to help infants and toddlers grow, learn, and build strong relationships. It’s truly about giving families the tools to support their child’s healthy development right from the start.”

Preschool serves children from ages 3 through 5 in Clare and Gladwin Counties, providing high-quality early education that promotes school readiness through play, hands-on learning, and the development of essential social, emotional, and cognitive skills.

“Our Preschool program is all about creating a strong foundation for children as they prepare for school,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “We focus on nurturing each child’s curiosity, creativity, and social skills through engaging, play-based learning. Head Start is more than just education—it’s about empowering children and their families to thrive.”

To learn more or apply for Early Head Start, visit www.mmcaa.org/earlyheadstart or call or text 1-877-386-4406.

To learn more or apply for Preschool, visit www.mmcaa.org/preschoolheadstart or call 989-386-8075.
 
Mid Michigan CAA is dedicated to providing comprehensive early childhood education and family services through programs like Head Start. We are committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive in a supportive environment and reach their fullest potential.
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Mid Michigan Community Action Agency guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.